When the days get darker: seasonal affective disorder, small changes and the Swedish tradition of fika
There is a particular point in autumn when you realise the evenings have disappeared. A few weeks earlier, there was still time for a walk after dinner. Now, you look up from what you are doing and it is already dark. For some people, that change brings a welcome excuse to slow down. For others, it brings something more difficult: less energy, lower mood and a growing desire to retreat from the world. Getting up becomes harder. Plans start to feel like obligations. The sofa becomes increasingly attractive, while the things that usually give life some interest feel further away. It is easy to respond by telling yourself to make more effort. But before adding self-criticism to an already difficult day, it may help to consider what is happening and what support you need. When seasonal changes become depression Seasonal affective disorder, usually shortened to SAD, is a form of depression that follows a seasonal pattern. It most often occurs during autumn and winter, although some pe...